Report: Graham Potter’s West Ham Era Begins with Mixed Fortunes | OneFootball

Positive Signs for West Ham Under Graham Potter

Graham Potter’s debut as West Ham manager showcased both the promise and challenges ahead for the Hammers. In a match that epitomised a game of two halves, there were encouraging moments, but the urgent need for reinforcements became apparent. As West Ham fans adjust to life under Potter, the signs are clear: this project will take time.

Encouraging Start Shows Potential

After a difficult tenure under Julen Lopetegui, Potter’s arrival brought an immediate spark. Within seconds, Lucas Paquetá came close to scoring, and just nine minutes later, he coolly slotted the opener following a fluid attacking move. The goal was a showcase of teamwork, with Lukasz Fabianski initiating the play, Max Kilman delivering a precise ball, and Crysencio Summerville providing the decisive assist.

Potter’s tactical adjustments caught Aston Villa off guard. Summerville, usually positioned on the left, played on the right and linked effectively with Mohammed Kudus. Meanwhile, Paquetá drifted centrally from his nominal left-wing role, embodying a new-found freedom under Potter.

These changes were a refreshing departure from the predictable setups of recent months. West Ham looked sharp, confident, and fully deserving of their early lead. However, as has often been the case this season, sustaining that momentum proved difficult.

Photo: IMAGO

Injury Concerns Highlight Transfer Needs

The early optimism was dampened by injuries to key players. Niclas Füllkrug, who has already endured a disrupted season, appeared to suffer a severe hamstring injury. With Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio also sidelined, West Ham’s attacking options are worryingly thin.

Summerville’s withdrawal at half-time added to Potter’s headaches. The winger pulled up in the first half but continued to play, only to be replaced at the interval. These setbacks underline the club’s urgent need to strengthen in the January transfer window.

West Ham have shown resilience, but their squad depth is being stretched to its limits. Reinforcements, particularly in attack, are crucial if the Hammers are to remain competitive in the Premier League.

Building Blocks for the Future

Despite the 2-1 defeat at Villa Park, there were positives for Potter to build on. Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s tireless efforts, Edson Álvarez and Tomáš Souček’s midfield energy, and the defensive diligence of 19-year-old Ollie Scarles stood out. The academy graduate, starting in domestic competition for the first time, earned the praise of the West Ham faithful for his composed performance.

However, Villa’s dominance in the second half exposed West Ham’s limitations. The hosts enjoyed 65% possession and ramped up their attacking threat after the break, leaving Potter powerless to prevent the turnaround. Danny Ings’ late misses denied West Ham extra-time, but the result reflected the balance of play.

Potter acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “It’s not going to be an overnight fix. But there’s a lot to be pleased about in how we approached the game. The key is to learn and keep improving.”

Looking Ahead with Optimism

West Ham fans know this is a long-term project. Potter’s tactical tweaks and the team’s early intensity offered glimpses of a brighter future, but injuries and a lack of squad depth remain significant obstacles.

As the club prepares to return to Premier League action, the focus must be on consolidating these positive signs and addressing the gaps in the squad. With patience and strategic recruitment, Potter has the foundation to build something special at West Ham.